The initiative was announced on May 13, 2021, by Gov. Brian Kemp at a gathering in Columbus, Ga. As part of the Initiative a GRA Eminent Scholar was created at Children’s, Emory, and Morehouse and named after state Rep. Honorable Calvin Smyre, the longest serving member of the Georgia General Assembly.
The initiative aims to improve the care of individuals affected by sickle cell disease (SCD) through research, comprehensive healthcare, community education, and advocacy.
The initiative was formally launched 14th January 2025.
Building a Strong Foundation for Sickle Cell Research and Innovation
By attracting leading experts in SCD research, SolveSickle is poised to make significant progress in advancing its scientific capabilities in Georgia. The State’s research landscape is strengthened by the August 2024 appointment of renowned researcher and global educator Solomon Ofori-Acquah to the Calvin Smyre GRA Eminent Scholar Chair. Georgia's research capacity is further elevated by the recruitment of esteemed pediatric hematologist-oncologist Dr. Beatrice Gee as the Teresa White Director of Clinical Programs, along with the appointments of distinguished GRA Investigator Dr. Francesca Vinchi and faculty members Dr. Mateus Gouveia and Dr. Xingguo Zhu. Together, these additions bring exceptional talent and expertise, immediately enhancing the state’s research strength and potential.
Although Georgia’s university laboratories are already well-equipped, further investment in advanced technology and instrumentation is crucial to fully support the work of the newly recruited research teams. These essential enhancements will ensure the infrastructure can keep pace with the demands of cutting-edge SCD research.
SolveSickle aims to develop innovative therapeutic, diagnostic, and predictive medicine solutions for sickle cell disease, while expanding access to these advancements both locally and globally. We are committed to promoting bold, high-impact research, attracting and investing in top scientific talent, and increasing access to effective SCD treatments. As part of this effort, Children’s will expand its treatment capacity, enabling clinicians to evaluate and implement new approaches developed by Georgia’s university researchers.
Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
SCD is a genetic blood disorder caused by two abnormal genes that produce defective hemoglobin, leading to rigid, crescent-shaped red blood cells that obstruct blood flow. Usually diagnosed in infancy, the disease causes a lifetime of unpredictable and often painful complications including severe pain, hemorrhaging, and stroke highlighting the urgent need for innovative treatments.
Learn MoreFurther Insights into the Initiative
SolveSickle
SolveSickle is establishing strategic partnerships to enable large-scale studies, and actively engaging donors and policymakers to drive meaningful, lasting impact. Central to our mission is attracting and supporting a diverse, highly qualified team. By investing in ambitious research and expanding access to effective SCD solutions, we aim to close gaps in care both locally and globally.
SolveSickle Grant Access Point
GRA’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship Program
GRA’s Innovation & Entrepreneurship program helps Georgia’s universities move more discoveries out of the lab and into the world.
Meet the Team
Solomon Ofori-Acquah, PhD
Georgia Solve Sickle Cell Initiative, Director
Domanique Reed
Georgia Solve Sickle Cell Initiative, Project Manager